10/26/2017
I have been back home in Washington since Monday but I am having a hard time reintegrating myself into my “normal” life. I have washed my clothes and unpacked most of my bags, however my navigation bag sits untouched in the middle of my office as I just don’t have the motivation to go through its contents. It feels too much like closure to put away my compasses, plotters, thin leaded pencils and numerous flags/stickies because at this moment I just don’t want closure…I want to keep living in the Rebelle “bubble”. Don’t get me wrong, I have a great life but I do I miss the Rebelle where my life was boiled down to the most simple of activities and technology was non-existent. It was a time for me to make personal connections with all of these amazing women the old fashion way by sitting face to face and having a real conversation. It was a time for me to just sit with myself and my own thoughts, emotions and other “stuff”.
Was it really only 6 days ago that I was doing the Rebelle Rally? Just a mere 7 days ago, Thuy Davis and I were on our way to Glamis and both anxious about our final day of competition in the dunes (which she rocked, BTW). We were driving through Joshua Tree NP and near the Salton Sea laughing, telling stories and enjoying our transit day while eating from our oversized “snack box”. Life was good!
I am still processing my complete experience from the Rebelle Rally 2017, but what I know is that it was a twice in a lifetime experience for me. I learned things, both good and bad, about myself. It helped me prioritize what it really important to me. It reminded me of how grateful I am for my amazing husband, parents and friends.
Thank-you to my partner, Thuy, who allowed me to lead us through the back-country of California and Nevada and once even halfway up a mountain where I was sure there was a black checkpoint (there wasn’t!). There were many moments of laughter, a few tears (by me) but mainly a chance to grow our friendship. I am so grateful to have shared this experience with her and know there are additional adventures in store for us in the future.